Trauma is one of those words that is often used and has come to mean many different things to different people.
However, for individuals who have experienced mental trauma, which may or may not be associated with physical trauma, the results are often devastating and lifelong.
For these individuals, trauma may have been a part of their lives for so long it seems as if it is just who they are. With therapy and counselling at the Eating Disorder & Addiction Specialists Group, it is possible to treat the trauma and find joy and peace in your life again.
Trauma is often related to experiences in childhood. Many adults who experience the clinical signs and symptoms of trauma do not have clear memories of traumatic experiences in their family. This type of pervasive trauma may have included alcoholism or drug abuse in the family, co-dependency issues, domestic violence and neglect of the children.
As children without a frame of reference, the abuse, chaos, and instability in the home may have been normalised and glossed over. However, feelings of never measuring up, of failure and of hypersensitivity to criticism or perceived risk of criticism are still prevalent.
Trauma can also occur from a single event or multiple events over a longer period of time as an adult. This type of trauma may include an assault, witnessing or being in a serious accident, experiencing sexual harassment or discrimination on an ongoing basis or simply being in a hostile environment.
The Effects of Trauma
Trauma, while invisible to the eye, can have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of the individual. They may experience fears and anxiety over specific situations and events. They may have difficulty in trusting others and forming interpersonal relationships. These individuals are also more likely to be diagnosed with depression or anxiety as well as a struggle with addictions.
Trauma, particularly PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome, can create very definite changes in personality and in responses to everyday situations. Individuals with PTSD often have difficulties with sleeping, eating and mood regulation. They may also have difficulty in interpreting the world around them and differentiating between real and perceived threats.
Treatment is Successful
With extensive training in the treatment of trauma in clients of all ages, Philippe Jacquet creates unique, customised treatment plans for each client. His background in clinical work combined with the integrated treatment approach used at Eating Disorder & Addiction Specialists Group focuses on treatment methods that work to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms.
Through a variety of treatment methods including talking therapy, art therapy and learning techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation and effective coping mechanisms, it is possible to overcome trauma.
Through therapy in a safe, comfortable setting, clients can evaluate the trauma and create a new narrative of how to cope. Overcoming the emotional blocks and the fear that trauma creates through the safe, therapeutic process is highly effective in overcoming the long-term effects of trauma and finding a healthy, happy and trauma-free life.
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